Overview
Kosui Matsuri, Lake Water Festival, is held to comfort the spirit of the Hakone Kuzuryū, nine heads dragon, living in Lake Ashi according to the Hakone Kuzuryū legend.
In the ritual to dedicate to Great God Nine-Headed Dragon, a Shinto priest from Hakone shrine throw sekihan, red rice, into the water after proceeding to the center of Lake Ashi by a boat.The fireworks on the Lake Ashi and Taiko drum music play also take place after the ritual and ceremony.
Video
History
During the Nara period from AD 710 to 794, a legend arose that the Nine-headed Dragon had settled in Lake Ashi and that it demanded a girl as a sacrifice.
Later on, the customary offering to the dragon changed from human sacrifice to steamed rice with red beans, and this is believed to be the origin of Kosui Matsuri.
Religious Background
Shintou
Image
Date
July 31st
Dates and functions are subject to change without notice. Be sure to check the latest information in advance.
Location
Hakone Town, Kanagawa Prefecture
More information
http://hakonejinja.or.jp/(Japanese)